HC Deb 23 January 1940 vol 356 c359
26. Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in order to provide non-commissioned officers old enough to command respect, he will consider the formation of schools to train volunteers for the position of sergeant?

Mr. Stanley

It is considered that the existing system of promotion by merit: gives the best results.

Sir A. Knox

Is my right hon. Friend not aware that in the units now under training the lack of senior non-commissioned officers of standing is very much felt?

Mr. Stanley

I cannot agree that it would be a good thing to have people enlisting specially as non-commissioned officers. They should, I think, do what they have always had to do in the past —prove their merits, and get promotion in that way.

Mr. Attlee

Are there at present any training schools for non-commissioned officers recommended in their units? Is there a shortage of such training establishments in this country?

Mr. Stanley

I will certainly look into that.